I begin this morning with a correction from yesterday: Mike Nesseth was not promoted to Reading, as was previously released, but to Clearwater, where he made his debut Friday in the Thresher's 12-6 loss to Lakeland. Mike allowed 2 runs on 3 hits and a walk, in just 1.2 innings. Chris Kissock's nightmare season continues, Chris let in 3 runs on 4 hits in just 1.1 innings of work, and Hector Neris let in a run in his inning. Cameron Rupp (.241) homered for the second straight day, one of his 2 hits on the night, and Jeremy Barnes and Jim Murphy also had 2 hits for Clearwater.

In Allentown, Tuffy Gosewisch doubled in a run in the bottom of the 8th inning for Lehigh Valley to tie the game, and then doubled in the game-winner in the bottom of the 10th, as the IronPigs came from behind for a thrilling 6-5 win over Rochester. The win put Lehigh Valley (46-34) in first place in the IL North...........In Reading, the R-Phils scored 4 run in the bottom of the 7th inning to take a 4-3 decision from Richmond. Darin Ruf (.318) hit his 13th home run for the first 2 runs, and Troy Hanzawa (.279) got a big 2-RBI hit for the deciding runs. Red hot Leandro Castro had 2 more hits, extending his hitting streak to 8 games. Leandro (.310) is 15 for 30 in the 8 games! Austin Hyatt pitched well, going 6 good innings, and allowing just 2 runs on 5 hits, NO walks, and striking out 5. Ryan Duke made his AA debut, gave up a run in his inning, and then was awarded the win when the big rally came in the same frame. Colby Shreve picked up his 2nd save for Reading (his 4th this season) with 2 scoreless innings of work to wrap it up. The win puts Reading (45-34) in first place, a half game ahead of Trenton.

In Lakewood, Maikel Franco hit a grand slam home run in the bottom of the 8th inning to break open a close game and give the BlueClaws a 6-1 win over Hagerstown. Ryan Howard was 1 for 2, playing 5 innings at first base, and will return to Lakewood tonight as the DH to continue his rehab. Ethan Stewart pitched well enough to win, but gave up an UNearned run in the 6th inning and left with no decision. Stewart allowed just 5 hits and 2 walks and deserved better. Blake Mascarello made his debut, threw 1.1 innings of scoreless relief and was the winning pitcher when the Claws broke the game open.

In Columbus, Jason Donald (.252) had 2 hits, scored 2 runs, and drove in 2 more for the Clippers in thier 9-4 victory over Norfolk.........In Tacoma, Bobby Korecky threw 2 scoreless innings (1 hit, 3 Ks) for Las Vegas, as the 51s shut out the Rainiers, 4-0.........In Sacramento, Michael Taylor (.303) had 2 hits for the River Cats, and they beat Salt Lake, 1-0 in 10 innings.........In Huntsville, Jesus Sanchez allowed 2 rare runs in the 9th inning of the Star's 4-3 win over Mobile. Jesus gave up the 2 runs on 4 hits, but struck out the side to record his 11th save. His ERA rose to a still excellent 1.59.......In Lancaster, Domingo Santana (.289) had a hit, 2 walks, and knocked in a run for the JetHawks, who lost 8-7 to the Quakes.

In Miami, the Marlins beat the Phillies, 6-2. Carlos Ruiz (.356) was 0 for 4 for the Phillies, who are now 10 games behind first place Washington..........In a wild one in Baltimore, the Orioles got past Cleveland, 9-8. Lou Marson (.250) was 1 for 4 with a walk, and scored a run for the Indians......In Atlanta, the Nationals took the opener of their big series with the Braves, 5-4. Michael Bourn (.306) had a hit and knocked in a run for Atlanta......In St. Pete, Quintin Berry (.308) was 0 for 3 for Detroit in thier 4-2 loss to the Rays.......In Phoenix, Mike Zagurski tossed a scoreless inning for the Diamondbacks, as Arizona beat the Brewers, 9-3.

Friday, June 29, 2012

The story of the night Thusday happened in Lakewood, as Ryan Howard and Chris Duffy led the BlueClaws back from a 6-0 deficit, to a thrilling 7-6 walk-off win. Ryan was 2 for 4 , with 3 RBI, and Duffy (.404) just keeps on producing, first with another home run in the 8th and then the 2-out, 2-run single to give Lakewood the victory. Kyrell Hudson, Miakel Franco and Alejandro Villalobos also had 2 hits each in the total team effort. Kudos also to Colin Kleven, who allowed 6 runs on 8 hits in the first 3 innings, before righting the ship and throwing 4 shut out frames as Lakewood worked its way back into the game. Good job by Kleven, shaking off the early barrage to keeping West Virginia right where they were as the offense mounted the comeback.

Howard will be at first base tonight for the Claws as they open a 5-game set with Hagerstown.

I almost forgot, there were other games yesterday............

First of all, sometimes you ask for things, and you get them!! Just last week I asked for Mike Cisco to be promoted and what do you know? Cisco made his Lehigh Valley debut last night, threw 3 scoreless innings of relief, and was credited with a save in the IronPig's 10-1 win over Rochester. It was Tyler Cloyd's 8th win with the Pigs, and 11th overall. Cloyd, who is 8-1, 2.11 for Lehigh Valley threw 6 innings, and gave up just 1 run on 7 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6.

Reading has added 2 former Claws. Mike Nesseth has been promoted directly to Reading, and RyanDuke, who started the year in Lakewood, but has been at Clearwater, also got the call. Catcher John Hill, who caught the game in Lakewood last night, has also been promoted to the Threshers.

And speaking of Reading, 6 R-Phils (4 HomeSiders) were named to the Eastern League All-Star Game, which will be played in Reading. Sebastian Valle, Darin Ruf, Troy Hanzawa, Julio Rodriguez, Cesar Hernandez and Justin Friend were all named. Dusty Wathan will manage the team. Best of luck to all of them!!

In the game in Reading, Richmond took a 5-2 decision from the home team. Jiwan James and LeandroCastro had 2 hits each, both have been hot, and D'Arby Myers had a pinch hit single and scored a run for Reading.

In the Texas League All Star game, all 3 of our Corpus Christi Hooks got into the game. Jonathan Villar stuck out in his at bat, and played 3 innings at shortstop, Jonathan Singleton walked and flied out to left, and Jarred Cosart threw a 1-2-3 inning with a strike out for the South Division, who lost, 3-1.

In Clearwater, the Threshers came home and took a 7-1 win from Lakeland. Cameron Rupp (.235) had a double, his 6th home run, and 2 RBI, Anthony Hewitt (.240) had a single and a double, stole a base (#8) and scored a run, and Carlos Alonso (.280) had 2 singles and scored twice. Brody Colvin (4-4) was the starter and winner, throwing 7 shut out innings by scattering 8 hits, NO walks, and striking out 9. AustinBrough pitched the final 2 frames, allowing 1 run on 3 hits and 1 walk, striking out 4.

In Pawtucket, Greg Golson homered in the top of the 11th inning to give the Charlotte Knights a 1-0 win over the Sox. It was his 4th home run and RBI #37 for Greg. A note for you Phillies fans, Brandon Duckworth threw 7 shut out innings for Pawtucket, 2 hits, NO walks, and 5 Ks.

In Philadelphia Thursday, Kyle Kendrick allowed 5 runs in the 1st inning, and then 6 more innings without giving up another one, but the Phillies came up short, dropping a 5-4 decision to the Pirates. From innings 2-7, Kendrick (2-8) allowed just 2 hits and 2 walks, keeping the Phillies in the game, but Pittsburgh held on for the win.

In Denver, The Rockies beat the Nationals, 11-10 in 11 innings. Josh Outman was the starter for the Rockies, and allowed 5 runs on 5 hits in just 3 innings of work. Outman is still searching for that elusive first win, and his ERA is a whopping 9.32! Ouch!

In Baltimore, Lou Marson had a hit and a walk, and scored a run to help the Indians beat the Orioles, 7-2. After a very slow start, Lou has his average up to .250 and is proving that if he is given some playing time, he can still hit......In Tampa, Quintin Berry (.316) had a single, an RBI, and scored a run for Detroit, as the Tigers got the best of the Rays, 5-2........In Atlanta, the Diamondbacks edged the Braves, 3-2. Michael Bourn (.306) was 0 for 3 with a walk, but drove in a run with a sacrifice fly for Atlanta.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

In Allentown, the Rochester Red Wings scored a run off BJ Rosenberg in the top of the 9th inning to take a 4-3 win from the IronPigs. Rosenberg had come into the game in 6th inning with the bases loaded and 1 out and stranded all 3 runners. Then he threw up 2 more zeroes before allowing 2 doubles in the 9th. It was the first loss of the year for BJ, who still has a very good 1.67 ERA for the Pigs. Tuffy Gosewisch had 2 hits and scored a run for Lehigh Valley.

In Reading, Julio Rodriguez improved to 5-1 on the year, as the R-Phils topped Richmond, 7-4. J-Rod went 6 innings, and gave up 4 runs on just 4 hits and 4 walks, striking out 5. Lisalberto Bonilla followed with 2 scoreless innings, and Leandro Castro knocked in a pair of runs with a double.

In case you have not heard, Ryan Howard will make a rehab appearance in Lakewood tonight as the BlueClaws look for a split against West Virginia.

In Arlington Wednesday, the Texas Rangers outscored the Tigers, 13-9, despite 3 hits from Quintin Berry. "Q" had 2 singles and a triple and drove in his 12th run for the Tigers, lifting his average up to an excellent mark of .318, and is 6 for 15 on his current 4-game hitting streak.......In New York, Lou Marson (.246) was 2 for 4 and scored a run for the Indians, who were beaten by the Yanks, 5-4.

In Cincinnati, the Brewers doubled the Reds, 8-4. Alfredo Simon threw 2 scoreless frames for the Reds, allowing 1 hit and 1 walk, and lowering his ERA to a very good 1.78......In Atlanta, the Braves topped the Diamondbacks, 6-4. Michael Bourn was 0 for 3, but drove in a run for Atlanta with a scarifice fly, and Mike Zagurski tossed a 1-2-3 inning for Arizona.

In Philadelphia, Chase Utley made his season debut for the Phillies and picked up 3 hits, including a home run in his first at bat! Carlos Ruiz also homered in the 1st, 1 of 2 hits for him on the night. Carlos (.364) had 8 hits in the 3 game series against Pittsburgh, who took an 11-7 decision. Joe Savery allowed 5 runs on 5 hits in just 2.2 innings and was returned to Lehigh Valley after the game. Jacob Diekman and Antonio Bastardo each tossed a shut out inning for the Fightin' Phils.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

In Allentown, the IronPigs pounded the Red Wings, 10-3. Chase Utley homered, and Jason Pridie had 4 hits to lead an 18-hit barrage. Steve Susdorf (.301) had 2 hits and a walk, and drove in 2 runs. Susdorf is currnetly the only HomeSider playing everyday for Lehigh Valley. Pridie arrival has taken Mike Spidale's spot, Domonic Brown and Derrick Mitchell continue to be sidelined, and Tuffy Gosewisch is splitting time. Pitching is another matter, and Tyson Brummett (3-1, 3.25) battled his way in and out of trouble over 3.2 scoreless innings of relief to earn the victory.

In Reading, Mario Hollands made it 2 wins in 2 starts for the R-Phils, with a fantastic 6 inning performance in Reading's 10-2 win over Richmond. Hollands allowed just 1 run on 2 hits and 3 walks, and Colby Shreve, another guy who was here in Lakewood this spring, went the next 2 innings. Hollands also drove in a run with a single! Leandro Castro, who is smokin' hot, had 3 more hits, including 2 doubles, and knocked in 4 runs to pace the Reading attack. It was the 5th time in his last 9 starts that Castro has had a multi-hit game, and he is 10 for 20 in the last 5 games. Jiwan James (.261) was on base all 5 times (2 hits and 3 walks), and Troy Hanzawa (.280) had a double and a triple and drove in 3 runs.

In Palm Beach, the good and the bad were on display, as the Threshers got past the Cardinals, 5-3. First the good, Austin Wright (7-2, 3.62) sparkled for 7 innings, allowing just 1 run on 7 hits and 1 walk. Then, Chris Kissock came on. I am not sure what is wrong with Chris (8.10 ERA) , but he is not having a good time this year. He faced 5 hitters and gave up 4 hits and 2 runs, and had to be bailed out by TylerKnigge. Tyler standed the 2 runners, and then concluded the game with a 1-2-3 9th, notching his 7th save and lowering that ERA down to 0.70!! Carlos Alonso (.276), Jim Murphy (.265) and Peter Lavin (.276) all had 2 hits for Clearwater.

Another guy having a great year out of the pen is Jesus Sanchez. Jesus saved his 10th game of the year for Huntsville last night, retiring 4 hitters in a row and lowering his ERA to 1.10. Put him on the list behind Knigge and Cisco of guys deserving a promotion.

In Albuquerque, the Isotopes defeated Nashville, 7-3. Jason Jaramillo (.279) had an RBI-double for the Sounds..........In Las Vegas, Anthony Gose (.296) had 3 hits, and scored 2 runs to lead the 51s to an 11-4 win over Sacramento. Michael Taylor (.303) had a double in 4 at bats for the River Cats..........In Portland, Kevin Howard (.312) hit a 2-run home run in the top of the 13th inning, his second hit of the game, to give the New Hampshire Fisher Cats a 5-3 win over the Sea Dogs.

Travis d'Arnaud, who has been as hot as anybody all season long, has torn the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee and could be out anywhere from 6-8 weeks. This will preclude him from playing in both the AAA All-Star game in Buffalo, and the Future Stars Games in Kansas City. Travis in hitting .333, with 16 home runs and 52 RBI for the Las Vegas 51s this season, and was certainly looking at a late season call up at some point this summer.

The only good part of the diagnosis is that it is a surgery-free rehab.

In Philadelphia Tuesday , Vance Worley pitched into the 7th inning, and Carlos Ruiz had his 2nd 3-hit game in a row as the Phillies beat the Pirates, 5-4. Worley picked up his 4th win of the year, going 6 good innings before running into trouble in the 7th. Ruiz (.361) was 3 for 4, including his 8th home run of the year, which proved to be the game winning hit. Antonio Bastardo pitched a scoreless 8th inning, recording his 15th hold of the season.

In Minnesota, Gavin Floyd shut out the Twins on just 5 hits over 7 innings, striking out 9 to beat the team that has given him the most trouble in his career. Gavin improves to 6-7 for the season for the Sox.

The 2 wins give the HomeSide a total of 36 major league victories in 2012.

In Atlanta, Michael Bourn led off the 1st inning with his 7th home run for the Braves, and Atlanta went on to an 8-1 win over Arizona. Bourn (.312) also had another hit, and scored 2 runs for the Braves, and Mike Zagurski struck out the only hitter he faced (McCann) for the Diamondbacks..........In Arlington, the Rangers got past the Tigers, 7-5. Quintin Berry (.308) had an RBI-single and a walk for Detroit.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Jarred Cosart was named Texas League pitcher of the week for the week ending June 24. In 2 starts this week, Cosart pitched 13 shut out innings, allowing just 9 hits and 3 walks, with 9 strike outs for the Corpus Christi Hooks.

In Columbus, Jason Donald (.265) had a hit and a walk for the Clippers as they beat the IronPigs, 4-2. Cody Overbeck had 3 hits, including a home run (#8) to account for the Lehigh Valley runs.

In Bowie, the BaySox beat Trevor May and Reading, 3-1. May (6-6, 4.97) went 5 innings and gave up 3 runs on 6 hits and 3 walks, before yielding to Mike Cisco. Cisco (1.08) did what he does, 2 more scoreless frames (just 1 hit, 1 walk, and 3 Ks). After Knigge, I think Cisco has had the best year out of the pen. Mike has only allowed 5 earned runs in 41.2 innings in 21 appearances. Knigge gets to go to Reading when the Phillies promote Cisco to Lehigh Valley.

Reading righthander and former Claw Jonathan Pettibone was named Eastern League Pitcher of the week for the week ending June 24. Jonathan made 2 starts, posted a win, and 1.29 ERA, striking out 15 in 14 innings of work. Congratulations to "Bone".

In Palm Beach, Jesse Biddle battled hard into the 7th inning last and picked up his 4th win of the year, as the Threshers beat the Cardinals, 7-5. The Clearwater line up distributed the 8 hits among 7 players, and 6 different Threshers stole a base each! Biddle had got himself through 6 innings giving up 1 run when he came out for the 7th. Back-to-back singles from the Cardinals to open the inning spelled the end for Jesse. Ryan Duke came on, allowed 3 hits, both inherited runners and 2 more to score, but Jay Johnson and Hector Neris threw a scoreless inning each and the game was in the books. The Threshers have 2 more games in Palm Beach before they are supposed to play a home game Thursday in Clearwater. The torrential rains in Clearwater has put much of the facilities there under water, so lets hope it clears and the water recedes soon.

An impressive 6-4 victory for the Lakewood BlueClaws Monday in the first game of a 9-game home stand. Miakel Franco led the attack with 2 hits and 3 RBI, as the BlueClaws rallied for 3 runs in the 6th, and never let the Power have a baserunner after that! The 3-4-5 slots of Kelly Dugan, Chris Duffy, and Aaron Altherr had 2 hits each as the Claws scored early and often! Duffy (.387) has now reached base in all 28 games in which he has played for Lakewood, getting hits in 26 of them! Dugan has now hit in 6 of the last 7 games, and Altherr is blistering hot with 4 straight multi-hit games, going 9 for 16 (that's .563)! The victory went to Luis Paulino, his 2nd of the year out of the pen, but to me the story was Mike Nesseth who retired all 9 hitters he faced, slamming to door shut on what had been a back-and-forth game up to that point. The epitome of team effort last night!

In Albuquerque, Will Savage won his 10th game of the year as the Isotopes defeated Nashville, 11-9. Savage (10-3, 5.21) lasted 6 innings, allowing 4 runs, 2 on a home run by Jason Jaramillo, on 8 hits and walk to record the win. Jaramillo (.277) had 2 hits and 3 RBI on the night for the Sounds .............In Rochester, the Red Wings beat Charlotte, 4-2. Greg Golson (.277) was 1 for 3 with an RBI for the Knights........In Las Vegas, Michael Taylor (.304) had a hit and walk, and scored 2 runs for Sacramento, as the River Cats outlasted the 51s, 9-8. Anthony Gose had a walk, was hit by a pitch, and stole second twice to run his steal total up to 29. Travis d'Arnaud (.333) was 1 for 1 before coming out of the game, I don't know why and can only hope this great season has not been interrupted by an injury. Keep your collective fingers crossed! Bobby Korecky retired 5 straight hitters for the 51s..........In Frisco, Jonathan Villar (.259) led off the game with his 7th home run of the season for Corpus Christi, but that was the only run of the game for the Hooks, who fell to the RoughRiders, 4-1.......In Lancaster, the Modesto Nuts beat the JetHawks, 14-4. Domingo Santana (.283) had a single and a double, and scored a run for Lancaster.

In Philadelphia Monday night, the Phillies rebounded from their doubleheader loss, scoring 4 in the 1st en route to an 8-4 win over the Pirates. Carlos Ruiz (.354) had 3 hits and scored 3 times and Jacob Diekman threw a scoreless inning (1 walk, 1 K) for the Phillies.

In Arlington, Quintin Berry (.307) had a hit and a walk, stole his 12th base without being caught yet, and scored 2 runs to help the Tigers beat the Rangers, 8-2......In Chicago, the Cubs beat the Mets, 6-1. Adrian Cardenas had a pinch hit appearance, reached base on an error and scored a run for the Cubbies.

Monday, June 25, 2012

OK, we got some strong pitching from our boys on Sunday, but I have to begin in Hagerstown, where Ethan Stewart won his 4th straight with sparkling performance against the Suns. "Stew" (4-6 after an 0-6 start) went 6 solid innings, allowing just 1 hit and an UNearned run, and walking only 2 in the Claws 5-3 win. Aaron Altherr was 2 for 4, including a 3-run home run (#5) in the top of the 1st, giving Stewart a 3-0 advantage before he ever took to the mound. The win gave Lakewood a split of the 4-game set to open the second half, and now will return home for a 9-game homestand beginning tonight against West Virginia.

In Palm Beach, Jim Murphy hit his 8th home run of the year, and Percy Garner, Juan Sosa and TylerKnigge combined on a 2-hitter, as the Threshers beat the Cardinals, 3-1. Murph's home run made a winner of Sosa, who threw 3 solid frames in relief, allowing just 1 walk to notch his 4th win of the year, and Knigge (0.73) struck out the side in the 9th for his 6th save! Tyler is the next one on my list to be promoted.

In Frisco, Jarred Cosart (4-4, 3.65) threw 6 shut out innings for Corpus Christi, and the Hooks beat the RoughRiders, 3-2. Jonathan Singleton has fallen on hard times, just 4 for his last 30 (.133) for the Hooks.......In Jackson, the Huntsville Stars scored 3 in the 9th to break a 2-2 tie and take a 5-2 win over Generals. Darren Byrd threw a scoreless inning and picked up the win, and Jesus Sanchez (1.26)notched his 9th save, picking up the final out.

In Bowie, Austin Hyatt allowed 6 runs on 8 hits in just innings of work, and the BaySox beat Reading, 9-4. Leandro Castro (.297, HR), Troy Hanzawa (.281) and Jiwan James (.259, 2 runs) all had 2 hits for the R-Phils.......In Columbus, the Clippers shut out the IronPigs on 4 hits, 4-0. HomeSiders were hitless in this one. Moving on......

In Rancho Cucamonga, Travis Mattair picked up 2 hits and an RBI for Bakersfield, who scored 9 times in the 9th inning for a 14-9 win over the Quakes. "Moose" has now had 5 multi-hit games in the last 10, and is 6 for 16 in the last 4, and while .242 does not sound like much, he is hitting .333 over the last 10............In Trenotn, Mike Dubee (2-3, 4.32) allowed 2 runs on 3 hits over 3 innings and was the losing pitcher for the Thunder, as Portland came from behind to win, 6-5........In Rochester, 4 Charlotte pitchers combined to throw a 2-hit shut out, and the Knights beat the Red Wings, 6-0. Greg Golson (.277) had a hit and scored a run for the Knights.

Finally, in Las Vegas, the Sacramento River Cats beat the 51s, 6-1. The interesting tidbit from this game was that Travis d'Arnaud (0 for 4, .331) played first base for the first time that I have noticed. Could it be the Blue Jays want to find a way to add Travis' bat (16 HR, 52 RBI in 66 games) without removing catcher JP Arencibia? Inquiring minds (and Superfan, too!) want to know!

For the second week in a row, Sunday was "Q-day" for the Detroit Tigers. After collecting 5 hits last Sunday in Detroit, Quintin Berry (.309) hit his first major league home run in his first at bat in Pittsburgh yesterday afternoon, spotting the Tigers to a 2-0 advantage. Quintin then walked and scored the winning run in the top of the 8th inning, proving once again to be the catalyst in a 3-2 Detroit victory. Just for good measure, he also stole a base, his 11th in 11 tries.

In Philadelphia, the Rays won a pair of games against the Phillies, 3-2 and 7-3. In the day game Cole Hamels (3.03) was fantastic, tossing 7 shut out innings, allowing just 3 hits and 3 walks, striking out 7, and leaving the game with a 1-0 lead. It did not take Antonio Bastardo long to give it up. Antonio (2-2, 3.75) retired only 1 hitter, before walking 2 and giving up a 3-run home run to Carlos Pena for the game winner. Mike Schwimer did pitch a 1-2-3 9th inning, and Carlos Ruiz (.351) had a hit and a walk.

In the night game, it was recently recalled BJ Rosenberg who could not get it done. Rosenberg got only 2 outs, but struggled with his control and walked 4 batters, 2 of which scored. Jacob Diekman came on with the bases loaded, and after allowing a runner to score by walking the first hitter he faced, Diekman then retired 4 in a row, but it was too late for Philadelphia.

In Houston, Jay Happ (6-7) was very good for the Astros, going 7 strong innings and giving up just 1 run on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 5 to win his 2nd straight start in a 7-1 Astros victory over the Indians. Happ was totally in charge the entire way. Lou Marson (.231) was 0 for 3 for the Tribe. The victory for Happ was #34 for HomeSiders in the majors this year.

In Boston, the Red Sox beat the Braves, 9-4, Michael Bourn (.311) was 1 for 5 for Atlanta.

Sunday, June 24, 2012

In Columbus, the Clippers came from behind to edge the IronPIgs, 3-2. Steve Susdorf (.305) was 1 of 4 Lehigh Valley players with 2 hits on the day. Tyler Cloyd (2.17) threw 6 shut out innings, giving up just 4 hits and 2 walks, leaving with a 2-0 lead and a good shot at the win. Cloyd is 7-1 for the IronPigs, and 10-1 overall in 2012.

The Phillies have started the shuffle that always takes place at this time of the year, with Jay Johnson being sent from Reading to Clearwater, and Cody Asche being promoted from the Threshers. Harold Martinez has also been promoted to the Threshers, and Brock Stassi has been brought up from Williamsport to Lakewood.

In Bowie, the Reading Phillies swept a pair of game from the BaySox, 3-1 and 4-2. In the opener, Jonathan Pettibone (7-5) threw a complete game (7 innings), allowing just 1 run on 3 hits and 2 walks, striking out 7. In the nightcap, Leandro Castro (.293) had 3 hits, including an double and an RBI, and Jiwan James and Tim Kennelly added 2 hits each to ensure the sweep. Colby Shreve picked up his first AA win with 2 scoreless innings of relief work.

In Clearwater, the Threshers rallied for 7 runs in the bottom of the 8th inning for a 7-2 win over Daytona. Cameron Rupp was 3 for 3, including 2 doubles, and Zack Collier had a big 2-RBI triple during the winning rally. Brody Colvin went the first 6 innings, giving up just 2 runs on 8 hits and 1 walk, and Chris Kissock picked up the win in relief.

In Hagerstown, the Suns beat the BlueClaws, 10-8. Chris Duffy (.384) and Aaron Altherr (.242) had 3 hits each, and Miakel Franco and newcomer Brock Stassi added 2 hits each to the Lakewood attack. You cannot say enough good things about Duffy, who has hit in 9 straight games now. Chris has hit safely in 24 of the 26 games in which he has played for Lakewood, and has reached base in all 26!!

In Rancho Cucamongo, Travis "Moose" Mattair had 3 hits, including a grand slam home run, and drove in 5 runs to pace the Bakersfield Blaze to a wild 15-10 win over the Quakes. Go, Moose!!........In Rochester, the Red Wings pounded Charlotte, 12-1. Greg Golson (.277) had 2 hits for the Knights.......In Las Vegas, Travis d'Arnaud (.336) had 2 hits, including a triple, drove in a run (#52) and scored another one, as the 51s beat Sacramento, 7-2. Michael Taylor (.309) drove in Sacramento's 2 runs with a 2-out, 2-RBI hit in the 7th inning for the River Cats......In Lake Elsinore, Domingo Santana (.282) had a single, a double, a walk, scored a run and drove in 2 more for Lancaster, but the JetHawks lost a 7-6 decision to the Storm.

In Philadelphia, Jim Thome hit a walk off home run in the bottom of the 9th inning to give the Phillies a 7-6 win over the Rays. It was the 13th walk off home run of his career, a major league record. CarlosRuiz (.351) was 2 for 3, and was hit by a pitch, and drove in a run for the Phillies. Kyle Kendrick started for the Phillies and only made it through 4 innings, allowing 3 runs, 2 earned, on 6 hits and 3 walks, striking out 6, and Antonio Bastardo threw 1.1 innings in relief, allowing a run on 4 hits, with 2 Ks.

In Boston, Michael Bourn (.313) had 3 hits, scored a run, stole 2 bases (20), and knocked in 2 runs for the Braves, bit Atlanta was defated by the Red Sox, 8-4............In Arlington the Colorado Rockies beat the Rangers, 11-7. Once again Josh Outman could not stay in the game long enough to pick up the win, going just 4.2 innings, and allowing 5 runs on 8 hits and 1 walk. Outman threw 92 pitches, as the Rox tried to keep him in the game through the 5th inning so he could qualify for the win......In Phoenix, Adrian Cardenas got a rare start for the Cubs, and was 2 for 3 with a run scored, but the Diamondbacks won, 10-5. Mike Zagurski threw a 1-2-3 inning for Arizona.

Finally, the Toronto Blue Jays have moved Kyle Drabek from the 15-day DL to the 60-day list, and that is not good news for Kyle.

Saturday, June 23, 2012

I am pressed for time this morning, so quickly, here are Friday's highlights:

Steve Susdorf (.297) had 3 hits and 3 RBI, and Tuffy Gosewisch added 2 hits, a walk, and an RBI as the IronPigs won in Columbus, 9-4.

Travis d'Arnaud (.333) had 3 hits, including a double, and his 16th home run, and drove in 2 runs, and Anthony Gose (.299) had a single, 2 doubles, a walk, and stolen base #27 for Las Vegas, who defeated the Padres, 11-6.

In Frisco, Jonathan Villar had a single and a home run, his 6th, and drove in 4 runs for Corpus Christi, as the Hooks beat the RoughRiders, 13-7.

Friday, June 22, 2012

In Toledo, BJ Rosenberg picked up his 2nd win since being sent back to Lehigh Valley, throwing 1.1 innings of scoreless relief and benefiting from the 3-run rally the IronPigs had after that. Second baseman Kevin Frandsen led Lehigh with 3 hits in the 7-4 win over the Mud Hens.

Mario Hollands has been promoted from Clearwater to Reading and made his debut for the R-Phils Thursday night in Manchester. Hollands, who started the year in Lakewood and has been moved up twice already, scattered 11 hits over 6 innings for the win in a 9-3 victory over the Fisher Cats. TimKennelly led the attack for Reading with 3 hits, including a triple, 2 RBI and 2 runs scored and has become a catalyst for Reading since he inserted into the lead off spot. Leandro Castro (.290) and JiwanJames (.252) added 2 hits each for the R-Phils.

In Hagerstown, the BlueClaws opened the second half season with a 5-3 win over the Suns. Chris Duffy (.372) had 3 hits, including 2 doubles and 2 RBI, and scored a run, and Alejandro Villalobos hit his first home run to pace the attack. Ervis Manzanillo won his first game of the year with a fine effort, allowing just 1 run on 3 hits and 1 walk over 6 stellar frames. Colton Murray allowed 2 UNearned runs in his 2 innings, and Kenny Giles recorded his 2nd save with a scoreless 9th.

In Tucson, Anthony Gose (.294)celebrated his selection to play in the Future Stars Game with 3 hits, includinga double, a walk, a run scored, an RBI and 2 stolen bases (26) to pace the Las Vegas 51s to a 4-2 win over the Padres........In San Antonio, Josh Zeid continues to pitch well for Corpus Christi. After a rough start, Josh has found his rhythm, throwing 2 more scoreless frames last night for the Hooks in their 5-3 loss to the Missions......In Jackson, the Huntsville Stars scored a run in the top of the 9th inning, and Jesus Sanchez (1.27) came on for a 1-2-3 bottom half to notch his 8th save of the season for the Stars..........In Rancho Cucamonga, Travis Mattair had a double and his 9th home run of the year for Bakersfield, as the Blaze pounded the Quakes, 12-2.

Matt Maloney's transition back to the starting rotation for Minnesota's AAA Rochester has not gone well. Matt was lit up again last night: 6 runs, 5 earned on 7 hits and 2 walks in just 1.2 innings against Durham. Maloney has made 6 starts now, going 5 innings just once, allowing 25 earned runs on 32 hits in just 20 innings of work. I would not be surprised if the experiment were terminated and he was returned to the bullpen.

Quintin Berry is having a great first month in the major leagues. After 3 3-hit games, he had a 5-hit game last Sunday, several good catches, and 9 for 9 in stealing bases, "Q" added a walk-off single in the bottom of the 10th Thursday to give the Tigers a 2-1 win over the Cardinals in the rubber game of their series. He has had more big moments since his call up than many players ever have in a career.

In Philadelphia, Vance Worley was 1 out away from 7 shut out innings when he allowed a 2-run home run Colorado's Chris Nelson. In all, just 4 hits and 2 walks and the 2 runs which saddled him with the loss in a 4-1 Rockies win. Then, after Chad Qualls put 2 men on base in the 8th, Jacob Diekman stranded the 2 runners with very good work in the 8th. Jake then walked Todd Helton with 1 out in the 9th, before Mike Schwimer gave up the final blow, a 2-run shot by Wilin Rosario.

Thursday, June 21, 2012

The annual Future Stars game to take place in Kansas City has named their rosters and the HomeSide is well represented. Travis d'Arnaud, Jonathan Singleton, and Anthony Gose will all play for Team USA, and Lisalberto Bonilla and Julio Rodriguez will pitch for the World team.

In Sacramento, Michael Taylor (.318) had 2 hits, scored a run and drove in 2 for the River Cats in their 10-7 win over Fresno..........In Toledo, the IronPigs defeated the Mud Hens, 2-1. Steve Susdorf (.293) had the only 2-hit game for Lehigh Valley.........In Manchester, Sebastian Valle had 2 hits, including his 8th home run of the year, and drove in 2 runs, but the R-Phils dropped a 4-3 decision to the Fisher Cats. Trevor May (6-5) was the starter, going 5 innings and allowing 4 runs on 7 hits and 3 walks, striking out 6. Colby Shreve retired the final 4 hitters.......In Clearwater, Chase Utley had 2 hits, and the Threshers got themselves a walkoff win, 3-2 over Dunedin. Jesse Biddle started and went 5, allowing 2 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks, but Ryan Duke, Hecor Neris and Tyler Knigge threw scoreless relief, Knigge getting his 4th win, and lowering his season ERA to 0.77!!

In Chicago, Gavin Floyd ended his losing streak with 6.1 innings of shut out ball against the Cubs. Floyd (5-7) allowed just 4 hits and 1 walk, striking out 4 as the Sox beat their cross town rivals, 7-0. It was the 33rd win in the major for HomeSiders this year.

In New York, Michael Bourn (.310) had a hit, stole his 18th and scored a run for the Braves as Atlanta stopped the Yankees winning streak, 10-5.............In Phoenix, the Diamondbacks outscored the Mariners, 14-10. Mike Zagurski was roughed up to the tune of 4 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks in just .2 of an inning. Yikes!!...............In Cleveland, the Indians beat the Reds, 8-1. Lou Marson had a walk in 4 at bats, and threw out a runner attempted to steal second for Cleveland, and Alfredo Simon (1.98) allowed 3 UNearned runs on 3 hits and 2 walks in 2.2 innings of relief for Cincinnati. ...........In Philadelphia, the Phillies rallied for 2 in the bottom of the 9th inning after 2 were out to take a 7-6 win from Colorado. Antonio Bastardo (2.42) threw another scoreless inning for the Phillies..........In Detroit, Quintin Berry (.322) had a rare 0 for 4 day, as the Tigers were shut down by Jake Westbrook and the Cardinals, 3-1.............

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

The Reading Phillies will host the Eastern League All Star game next month, and the Lakewood BlueClaws will host the 2013 South Atlantic League on the Jersey shore next June. The BlueClaws made the announcement today, but HomeSide News readers were tipped off 2 weeks ago.....You're welcome!!!

In Charleston, Colin Kleven threw a scoreless inning in the SAL All-Star Game, and was the winning pitcher as the North topped the South, 3-2, and in Kodak, Jesus Sanchez allowed a run on a hit, but struck out 2 in the Southern League All-Star game, as the South took a 6-2 victory over the North.

In Charlotte, Jason Doanld hit for the cycle to lead the Clippers to a 13-2 win over the Knights. "JD" (.302) drove in 4 runs for Columbus, recording the franchise first cycle in over a year. Greg Golson (.283) had an RBI double for Charlotte.

In Tucson, Anthony Gose (.291) had a walk and a triple, scoring twice, and Travis d'Arnaud (.336) and Kevin Howard (.264) added 2 hits each as the Las Vegas 51s beat the Padres, 8-2. Andrew Carpenter scattered 7 hits over 7 shut out innings to win his 5th game of the year for Las Vegas.......In San Antonio, Jonathan Singleton walked and scored the first of 4 runs in a 4-run 12th inning to give the Corpus Christi Hooks a 4-0 win over the Missions. Jarred Cosart was excellent, throwing 7 shut out innings, allowing just 5 hits and 1 walk, striking out 8 along the way.

First note of news is that Freddy Galvis has been suspended by major league baseball for 50 games for violating its substance abuse program. Galvis, who is on the DL, will begin serving the suspension immediately.

Tuesday night n Philadelphia, Cole Hamels won his 10th game of the year, beating Josh Outman and the Rockies, 7-2. Hamels was great, throwing 8 strong innings, and giving up just 2 runs on 6 hits and 3 walks, striking out 7 to improve to 10-3, 3.25 on the year. Carlos Ruiz (.358) belted a double and a 2-run home run, his 9th, knocking in 3 runs for the Phillies. Outman went into the 5th before he ran out of gas, absorbing his 3rd loss without a win. The Rockies have had rotation problems and announced yesterday they will go with a 4-man rotation for now, limiting the starters pitch counts to around 75 pitches per start. Good for Outman, who will get more starts, but he will have to get through 5 innings if he is ever going to pick up a win.

The win for Cole was #32 for the HomeSide this year.

In Detroit, Quintin Berry had 2 more hits, knocked in a run and scored one, as the Tigers defeated the Cardinals, 6-3. Berry (.337) also made an error, his 1st, which opened the door for a couple of unearned runs.......In Phoenix, the Mariners scored 3 in the 10th for a 12-9 win over the Diamondbacks. MikeZagurski threw a 1-2-3 6th inning for Arizona.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

A light schedule Monday, but Michael Bourn was in action. The Braves lost a 6-2 game in New York, but Bourn (.316) figured in both runs. Mike had a lead-off triple and scored in 1st, then had an RBI single in the 5th................In Houston, Jay Happ ended his personal losing streak with a fine effort against the Royals. Happ (5-7) pitched 6 very good innings, allowing just 2 runs on 4 hits and 1 walk, as the Astros topped Kansas City, 9-7. It was win #31 for HomeSiders in the majors this year.

In Toledo, Tyler Cloydwon his 7th game for the IronPigs, and his 10th overall this year, as Lehigh Valley beat the Mud Hens, 6-3. Cloyd (7-1, 2.37) went 6 good innings, giving up 3 runs on 6 hits and 1 walk, striking out 4 along the way. Lehigh Valley improved to 40-29 and trails first place Pawtucket by 4 games.

In Reading, Troy Hanzawa (.279) led off the bottom of the 10th inning with a double and scored the winning run for the R-Phils in their 4-3 victory over Akron. Sebastian Valle pounded 3 hits for Reading, who wasted a fine performance from Jonathan Pettibone. "Bone" struck out 8 in 7 innings, allowing just 1 earned run on 4 hits, and received no decision.

Monday, June 18, 2012

In Reading, Julio Rodriguez (4-1, 2.81) threw 7 solid innings against Akron, allowing just 2 runs on 2 hits and 4 walks, striking out 10 in the R-Phils' 4-2 win over the Aeros. D'Arby Myers was 1 for 3 with an RBI in his AA-debut, and Colby Shreve picked up his 1st save with a scoreless 9th inning of work.

In Lakewood, Ethan Stewart won his 3rd straight start, a 6-1 win for the Claws over Hickory. Stewart went 6 stellar innings, allowing just 1 run on only 3 hits and 2 walks to wrap up the first half on a positive note for Lakewood, winners of 6 of their last 8. Chris Duffy and Guantlett Eldemire had 2 hits each for the Claws, who will now take 3 days off before opening the second half in Hagerstown Thursday.

In Gwinnett, Jason Donald (.292) had 2 hits, a walk, a sacrifice and scored 2 runs for the Clippers, as Columbus beat Yohan Flande and the Braves, 6-2. Flande (3-5, 395) pitched 8 innings, allowing 3 runs on 7 hits and 2 walks.............In Charlotte, Greg Golson (.285) doubled and scored a run, but it was the only hit the Knights got in the game, as Indianapolis scored a run in the 9th for a 2-1 win..............In Huntsville, Jesus Sanchez (1.30) notched his 7th save of the year for the Stars in their 3-1 win over Montgomery. Darren Byrd picked up a hold, his 4th, with 2 scoreless inning to set it up.....in Frisco, Jonathan Villar had an RBI double, and then hit a 2-run home run during Corpus Christi's 9-run 11th inning which produced a 14-5 win for the Hooks.

In Toronto, the Blue Jays defeated the Phillies and Kyle Kendrick, 6-2. Kyle (2-7) went 6.1 innings, giving up 6 runs, 5 earned, on 8 hits and 2 walks, striking out 4. Jacob Diekman came in and got the last 2 outs of the 7th, allowing a hit and an inherited runner to score.

In Cleveland, the Pirates defeated the Indians, 9-5. Lou Marson (.254) had a hit and 2 walks, and scored a run for the Tribe........In Atlanta, the Braves were shut out again, this time Michael Bourn (.313) went 1 for 4, and has now hit in 15 of the last 16.

Domonic Brown's injury riddled season goes on. After suffering through hamstring and knee injuries to his left leg, and seemingly completely recovered, the lastest setback has 2 strained ligament in his right knee. It is unclear how long he will be out this time, the treatment right now is complete rest.

Too bad for Dom, who was just hitting his groove. In the last 17 games, he had multi-hit games in 7 of them, with 4 home runs, 3 doubles and 7 RBI, his average at .266 and climbing.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

Quintin Berry wants to play!! After not being in the starting line up for a week, Berry returned on Sunday and made his statement with a 5 for 5 performance!! Translation: PLAY ME! "Q" also had a stolen base, his 9th, and raised his average back to .333. He has 26 hits in 23 games, and I guess it is safe to say he will probably be in the Tiger's line up when it is posted for Tuesday's game against St. Louis.

On Saturday in Atlanta, the Orioles Jason Hammel threw a 1-hit shut out at the Braves, ending MichaelBourn's 14-game hitting streak. Bourn (.314) was 0 for 4 in the 5-0 loss.

In the Florida State League All-Star Game in Fort Myers, the South beat the North 6-3. Threshers in the game included Cody Asche (1 for 4), Peter Lavin (0 for 1), Cameron Rupp (0 for 2) Jesse Biddle (1 IP, 2 hits, 3 Ks) and Tyler Knigge (3 walks, 2 runs 1 earned, only 1 out).

In Allentown, Austin Wright, who was promoted from Clearwater directly to Lehigh Valley, made his 2nd start for the Ironpigs and was solid for 6.2 innings against Durham. Austin allowed just 1 run on 3 hits and 2 walks, but took the loss in the Bulls' 3-0 win.

In Reading, the R-Phils split a doubleheader with Akron. In the opener, Darin Ruf (.338) had 2 hits, including his 11th home run of the year in a 2-1 Reading victory. Brandon Tripp got the walk off hit, a 7th inning home run to make a winner of Mike Cisco. Mike (3-2, 1.04) went 2 scoreless innings in relief of David Buchanan, who started and went 5 , allowing just 1 run on 5 hits. Akron won the nightcap, 6-4. Leandro Castro (.294) was 3 for 3, including a double, and Jiwan James (.260) added 2 hits and drove in 3 runs for Reading. Lisalberto Bonilla (2.42) went 3 scoreless innings, striking out 5 on the way, and Tim Kennelly had to come on to pitch for the final out!! Catcher, infielder, outfielder, and now pitcher, Tim is surely a handy guy to have on your team!

In Lakewood, Kelly Dugan had 2 doubles, a walk, an RBI and scored 2 runs to pace the BlueClaws to a 4-3 win over Hickory. Chris Duffy also had 2 hits and has still reached base in every game he has played for the Claws, and Aaron Altherr had a hit, 2 RBI and 2 stolen bases. Lakewood got good pitching again. Colin Kleven was cruising along when he seemed to run out of gas in the 5th inning, giving up a 3 runs after he recorded 2 outs. Even with that result, you cannot complain about the effort we are getting from Kleven in the past month, which has been very good. Gabriel Arias was the winner, throwing 2.1 innings of scoreless relief, striking out 5 of his 7 outs, and the save goes to Yari Sosa, who finished it off for the Claws, won have now won 5 of 7 as we wrap up the first half of the season Sunday afternoon. Lakewood gives the ball to Ethan Stewart, who has also been throwing very well in his last 6 starts.

The Matt Maloney experiment, that is the Twins trying him back in the rotation with Rochester, took another hit as the Louisville Bats got to Maloney for 9 runs, 8 of them earned, on 8 hits and 3 walks in just 3.2 innings of work as the Bats recorded an 11-5 win. Maloney has now made 5 starts since May 25, and has allowed 20 earned runs on 38 hits in just 18.1 innings of work. Maloney is the winningest pitcher in Lakewood history, but has been working out of the pen almost exclusively the last few years. If the current trend continues, he could be headed back to relief work.

In Nashville, Jason Jaramillo (.310) was 1 for 2, and also walked and scored in the Sounds 7-run rally in the 6th inning, as Nashville beat Omaha 10-3 in the 2nd game of a doubleheader.......In Gwinnett, Jason Donald (.282) had a hit, a walk, an RBI and scored 2 runs for Columbus, helping the Clippers take a 6-1 win from the Braves...........In Charlotte, the Knights rallied for 2 in the bottom of the 11th to snatch a 5-4 win over Indianapolis. Greg Golson (.285) had 2 hits, an RBI, and stole 2 bases (15) for the Knights........In Las Vegas, Anthony Gose and Kevin Howard each had a hit, a walk, and an RBI, and Gose scored 2 runs as the 51s topped Colorado Springs, 9-3.............In Frisco, Jonathan Villar (.267) had a single, and a double, and drove in a run to help Corpus Christi take a 5-0 win from the RoughRiders.

Saturday, June 16, 2012

In what appears to be a response to Carlos Ruiz' injury, the Phillies recalled catcher Eric Kratz from Lehigh Valley, and returned BJ Rosenberg to the IronPigs. So far, Ruiz has not been put on the DL, but we shall see...

I have 2 points going around in my head to share.

1. I think Charlie Manuel blew it in Rosenberg's debut by sending him back out after a 1-2-3 1st inning. Brian seemed to really relax after that first frame was over and was never able to crank it back up to that level in the next frame. Why wouldn't you take him out and have him have a positive feeling in his major league debut? I would have.

2. Hasn't Tuffy Gosewisch earned one of these call-ups? I know Schneider is going to catch most of the innings, but why is Kratz more deserving than Tuffy?

In Toronto Friday night, 6 Blue Jays pitchers combined to hold the Phillies to 5 hits in a 3-0 Blue Jays win. Carlos Ruiz (.362) had a hit and a walk, and Vance Worley deserved better. Worley (3-3, 2.80) went 7 good innings and allowed 3 runs, but only 1 earned, on 5 hits and 2 walks The Phillies have now lost 10 of 13. Ruiz came out of the game in the 6th inning, with what looked like a strained oblique on his left side.

In Chicago, the Cubs shut out the Red Sox, 3-0. Adrian Cardenas had another pinch hit appearance, striking out again. It seems Adrian is just going to sit on the bench all day with the Cubs, looking for that 1 at bat. Not unlike what Quintin Berry is going through with the Tigers now that Austin Jackson is back. In the week since Jackson's return, Berry has started just 1 game, but has been used as a hitti\er and/or a runner in all but 1 contest. Last night in Detroit, Berry came on as a pinch hitter, and stayed in the game defensively, going 0 for 2 on the night. He was on the field in the 10th inning when the Rockies scored 8 times.

In Atlanta, the Braves doubled up the Orioles, 4-2, Michael Bourn (.319) had a hit to extend his hitting streak to 14 games in a row.

In Reading, Darin Ruf (.333) led a 15-hit Reading attack into a 7-2 win over Akron. Sebastian Valle (.246, double, home run, 2 RBI), Jiwan James (.258, single, home run, 2 runs) and Troy Hanzawa (.287, RBI) all chipped in with 2 hits each, backing very good pitching from Trevor May. May (6-4) went 6 solid innings, allowing just 2 runs on 2 hits and 2 walks, striking out 6. Colby Shreve tossed 2 more scoreless innings and is showing no ill effects from that disastrous first AA outing.

In Lakewood, Kyrell Hudson had 2 hits, and Chris Duffy drove in 2 runs, including the game-winner, as the BlueClaws edged Hickory, 4-3. Mike Nesseth picked up the win in relief, and is now 5-1 on the year.

In Lancaster, Domingo Santana (.288) pounded 3 hits including a double, drew a walk, scored 2 runs and drove in 3 more to lead a 19-hit attack for the JetHawks in their 14-4 beating of the 66ers............In Charlotte, Greg Golson (.284) had 2 singles, a double, a walk, stole his 13th base, scored 2 runs and drove in 2 more as the Knights defeated Indianapolis, 6-1........In Vegas, Anthony Gose and KevinHoward had 2 hits each for the 51s in their 4-3 loss to visiting Colorado Springs...........In Kodak, the Tennessee Smokies doubled up the Barons, 6-3. Brian Schlitter threw the last inning for the Smokies, recording his 2nd save. Meanwhile, down in Huntsville, Jesus Sanchez notched his 6th save with a scoreless 9th inning in the Stars' 6-4 win over Montgomery. Sanchez has been great for Huntsville this year, with a 1.33 ERA in 27 games covering 40.2 innings.

Congratulations from the HomeSide News to Jonathan Villar and Jonathan Singleton, both of whom were named to play in the Texas League All-Star game June 28 in Tulsa.

Anthony Hewitt followed up his 3 for 4 Wednesday, with 2 home runs Thursday and 4 RBI for the second straight day as the Threshers beat Tampa, 10-7. Third baseman Cody Asche (.343) was 5 for 5 for Clearwater. Austin Wright was the starter, but the win went to Austin Brough, his 1st of the season, who threw 1.1 innings of relief and was in the right place at the right time!

In Binghamton, Tim Kennelly (.288) was 3 for 3, with a walk, a double and an RBI, but Reading dropped an 8-5 game to the Mets. Austin Hyatt was the starter for the R-Phils and lasted 5.1 innings, yielding 3 runs on 5 hits and 1 walk, striking out 9 for a no decision.........In Lakewood, the rain has stopped and the BlueClaws resumed play with a 7-1 defeat at the hands of Hickory. Silver lining here was good relief pitching from both Kenny Giles and Yaris Sosa, after Ramon Oviedo allowed 6 runs in 4 innings. Oviedo was very good in his debut, but has struggled in his 4 starts since then.

In Charlotte, Greg Golson (.277) had a single, a double, a walk, stole his 12th base and scored twice, but the Knights lost to Indianapolis, 5-3.........In Iowa City, Will Savage won his 9th game of the year for Albuquerque in the Isotopes' 10-8 win over the Cubs. Savage lasted 6 innings and allowed 8 runs on 11 hits, but was the beneficiary of the offensive explosion.............In Nashville, Jason Jaramillo had a hit and 2 walks for the Sounds in their 4-2 loss to Omaha. Jason is now hitting .300 in 13 games since his promotion..............In Las Vegas, Kevin Howard (.250) was 3 for 4, with a double and 2 RBI, and Travis d'Arnuad (.346) added a double and an RBI, but the 51s dropped a 6-3 decision to the SkySox..........In Sacramento, Michael Taylor (.335) had 2 hits and a walk for the River Cats, but Tacoma scored 2 in the 9th for a 6-4 win..........In New Britain, Matt Rizzotti had 2 hits and a walk for the Rock Cats, who lost a 13-inning affair, 3-2 to the Aeros..........In Huntsville, Darren Byrd pitched 2 innings for the Stars, allowing 2 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks in the Stars' 9-7 loss to Montgomery..........In Frisco, the RoughRiders beat Jarred Cosart and the Hooks, 4-3. Cosart (3-4, 4.50) went 6 innings, and allowed 4 runs, 3 earned, on 5 hits and 3 walks.

In Cincinnati Thursday, the Reds topped the Indians, 12-5. Lou Marson was 3 for 4 for the Tribe and has his average up to .246. That may not sound like much , but Lou was struggling for playing time, and therefore at bats, and has just found his groove since getting to play for a week for Carlos Santana. After having a 6-game hitting streak, Lou only played 1 game in the last 7 days ( 0 for 2, with a walk) before making his statement for more time yesterday. Go, Lou!! Alfredo Simon (2.19) pitched 2 innings for the Reds, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits, striking out 3.

In St. Paul, Carlos Ruiz (.361) was 1 for 3 with an RBI for the Phillies in their 6-1 win over the Twins in the rubber game of the series......In St. Louis, Gavin Floyd's struggle goes on. Gavin (4-7) went 4.2 innings against the Cardinals, and was hit for 5 runs on 8 hits and 4 walks as the Card beat the White Sox, 5-3.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

In Binghamton, the Reading Phillies swept a doubleheader from the Mets with excellent pitching, winning 3-1 and 1-0. In the opener Cesar Hernandez and Jiwan James had 2 hits each and the Phillies scored 3 in the 7th to steal the victory. Jonathan Pettibone (6-5, 3.62) was the winning pitcfher, by virtue of 6 solid innings in which he allowed just 1 run on 5 hits and NO walks. Hernandez (.325) had 2 more hits in the nightcap, and Colby Shreve ( 1 IP, 1 hit, 1K) , Lisalberto Bonilla (2 IP, 1 hit, 2 Ks, W) , and MikeCisco (1.10 ERA) all pitched well.

In Tampa, Anthony Hewitt had a single, a double and a home run, and drove in 4 runs to lead the Threshers to an 8-5 win over the Yanks. Mario Hollands (3-0, 1.69 since his promotion) was the winning pitcher, going 5 good innings, with Chris Kissock and Ryan Duke chipping in with some scoreless relief.

In Lakewood, the BlueClaws danced through the drizzle and cold just long enough to take a rain-shortened 4-3 win over the Shorebirds. Kyrell Hudson had 2 big hits and 3 RBI to pace the Claws attack. Hudson, struggling most of the season, is showing signs of coming out of it, going 8 for 20 in the last 8 games in which he has played.

In Memphis, Jason Jaramillo (.289 since promotion) had 2 hit, including a home run and drove in 3 runs to help Nashville defeat the Redbirds, 5-4........In Las Vegas, Travis d'Arnaud (.346) had 2 more hits, including a triple, and Anthony Gose (.295) had an RBI single and scored a run as the 51s defeated Tucson, 6-5. Jesus Merchan had 3 hits for Tucson, including an RBI double, and is 5 for 8 in 2 games since joining the Padres...........In Altoona, the Trenton Thunder swept a pair of games from the Curve, 10-2, and 2-0. Mike Dubee tossed a scoreless inning of relief in the opener for Trenton..............In Huntsville, Darren Byrd threw a 1-2-3 inning for the Stars, but they lost to Montgomery, 6-3..........In Stockton, Travis "Moose" Mattair had 2 hits, including his 8th home run and drove in 4 runs for the Blaze, but Bakersfield lost to the Ports, 9-6.

In Minnesota Wednesday, Carlos Ruiz (.361) had a single, 2 doubles and 2 walks, knocked in a run and scored twice to help the Phillies survive a 9-8 win over the Twins. After a 6-run 1st inning should have been enough for Cole Hamels to cruise, it turned out they needed every one of those runs, and some more. Hamels (9-3) was the winning pitcher, despite allowing 7 runs (6 earned) on 8 hits and 2 walks. Antonio Bastardo also allowed a run on 2 hits in his inning, recording his 13th hold of the year.

The victory for Cole was #30 for the HomeSide, and the first in June, this year.

In Toronto, Stephen Strasburg defeated Kyle Drabek and the Blue Jays, 6-2. Drabek is still not quite right, this time only going 4.1 innings and giving up 4 runs on 7 hits and 1 walk, falling to 4-7, 4.67 for Toronto this year. In San Francisco, Jay Happ (4-7) was ripped for 8 runs on 11 hits in just 3.1 innings, as Matt Cain threw a perfect game for the Giants, an 11-0 win for San Francisco In Colorado, the Athletics reached former teammate Josh Outman for 5 runs on 6 hits over 5 innings, and Oakland went on to take a 10-8 win with 3 in the 9th..............In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.319) extended his hitting streak to 13 games, with 2 hits for the Braves in their 3-2 loss to the Yankees..............In Chicago, Quintin Berry (.296) had a pinch hit RBI single for the Tigers, as Detroit beat the Cubs, 8-4. "Q" also stole his 8th base of the season. Adrian Cardenas had a pinch hit appearance for the Cubs, and struck out.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

In Las Vegas, Travis d'Arnaud (.343) was 4 for 5, including his 15th home run, knocking in 3 runs (45) to pace the 51s to a 9-3 win over Tucson. Anthony Gose (.296) added 3 hits and a walk for Vegas, and Jesus Merchan, just signed by the Padres yesterday, had 2 hits for Tucson..........In Columbus, GregGolson had single, a home run, a walk, scored 2 runs and stole his 11th base to lead the Charlotte Knights to a 13-6 win over the Clippers. Jason Donald (.315) had 2 hits and 2 RBI for Columbus.......In Fresno, the Grizzlies won an 8-7, 13-inning marathon from Sacramento. Michael Taylor (.337) had 2 hits and a walk, driving in a run for the River Cats........In Stockton, the Ports and Bakersfield split a pair of games. Travis Mattair (.231) was 2 for 6 on the day, with an RBI for the Blaze.

Lehigh Valley, Reading and Lakewood were all rained out, and in Clearwater, the Threshers lost a 10-inning game to Tampa, 4-3. Brody Colvin pitched very well, allowing just 1 run on 2 hits in 6 innings, and Tyler Knigge threw another scoreless inning of relief. Knigge's ERA is down to 0.79!! Albert Cartwright drove in all 3 runs for Clearwater with a bases clearing double in the 7th inning.

Lets begin in St. Paul, where a parade of HomeSiders absorbed the loss in an 11-7 Twins win over the Phillies. Kyle Kendrick got the start, and the left handed hitting Twins were all over him. Kyle (2-6) lasted 4 innings, giving up 6 runs on 8 hits and 2 walks, before Joe Savery (2 IP, 3 runs, 5 hits), BJRosenberg (2 runs, 2 hits, 2 outs), and Jacob Diekman (1 hit, 2 walks, 1 inherited runner allowed to score, 1 K) all took a turn at getting abused. Carlos Ruiz (.350) had a single, a double, a walk, and scored twice for the Phillies.

In Atlanta, the Yankess used the home run ball to come from behind and beat the Braves, 6-4. Michael Bourn (.317) had a hit, stole his 17th base, and scored a run for Atlanta. Bourn has now hit in 12 games in a row.......In Arlington, the Rangers were all over the Diamondbacks, 9-1. Mike Zagurski faced 4 hitter for Arizona, allowing a hit and a walk, while striking out the other 2. Both runners Mike inherited scored........In Chicago, the Cubs edged the Tigers, 4-3. Quintin Berry pinch hit in the 7th inning, walked and scored what was the tying the run for Tigers.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

The Florida State League has honored Tyler Knigge by naming him the the All-Star team for next weeks game. He joins teammates Austin Wright, Jesse Biddle, Adam Morgan and Cameron Rupp, who have also been named.

Monday in Atlanta, the Yankees shut out the Braves, 3-0, but Michael Bourn (.319) had a hit to extend his hitting streak to 11 games.

In Syracuse, the IronPigs scored 4 runs in the 6th inning to back another fine performance from TylerCloyd to beat the Chiefs, 4-1. Cloyd (6-1, 2.15) went 7 innings, allowing just 1 run on 7 hits and 1 walk, and even had an RBI hit and scored during the rally! Tyler is hitting .364 with 2 RBI for the Pigs!! Mike Spidale (.325) had the hit that started the rally and Domonic Brown (.269) capped it off with an RBI double. Lehigh Valley is now 37-27, and just 2 games behind first place Pawtucket, who lost to Yohan Flande and Gwinnett, 11-8. Flande threw 99 pitches in just 5 innings (2 runs, 5 hits, 3 walks), improving to 3-5, 3.90 for the Braves.

In Dunedin, D'Arby Myers (.304) had a single and a double and drove in 2 runs to help the Threshers beat the Blue Jays, 7-2. Edgar Duran (.265) also had 2 hits, including a bases clearing triple, and 3 RBI, and Cameron Rupp added his 4th home run of the year for Clearwater. This trio, hitting 7-8-9 in the batting order, collected 5 of Clearwater's 6 hits on the night. Percy Garner (3-3, 5.05) pitched very well for 6 innings- just 1 run on 2 hits and 4 walks, with 5 Ks. Hector Neris (2 IP, 1 run, 2 hits, 3 Ks, 7th hold) and Tyler Knigge (0.82, struck out 2 of the 3 hitters he faced) finished it off strong.

In Lakewood, the BlueClaws and Delmarva split a pair of games. The Claws won the opener behind another solid performance from All-Star Colin Kleven. Kleven (4-5, 3.66) went 6.1 innings (remember it was a 7- inning game) and allowed just 1 run on 5 hits, and was in control all night long. Bob Stumpo had 2 hits for Lakewood in the 2-1 victory. The Shorebirds did rebound to win the nightcap, 6-4 in 11 innings. Chris Duffy had a double and a home run, and drove in 2 runs for the Claws. Duffy has reached base in all 18 games he has played for Lakewood this year. Alejandro Villalobos and Carlos Perdomo also had 2 hits for Lakewood, but the big hit was a 2-out double by Guantlett Eldemire, which tied the game in the bottom of the 6th. Guantlett then scored the go-ahead run, but the Shorebirds would not be denied, scoring the tying run in the 7th off Gabriel Arias (who has pitched very well lately, but did give it up last night), and the won it off Matt Campbell in the 11th.

In Indianapolis, the Indians jumped on Matt Maloney for 6 runs, 4 earned, on 4 hits in just 2 innings on their way to a 16-0 trouncing of the Red Wings. Maloney has now made 4 starts, and 5 innings has been his longest outing. In the 4 starts, Matt had allowed 13 earned runs in 14.2 innings. That will not keep him in the rotation for much longer. Tough news for the pitcher who has won the most games in Lakewood history.

In Las Vegas, the 51s collected 17 hits en route to a 13-3 win over Tucson. Travis d'Arnaud (.333) had a double and his 14th home run of the year, and is benefiting from having Vladimir Guerrero in the line up. Yes- THAT Vladimir Guerrero! Anthony Gose (.289) added 2 hits, and Bobby Korecky threw 3 innings of relief, allowing just 1 run on 1 hit and 1 walk, striking out 3 for Vegas.

In Stockton, Travis Mattair had a 2-RBI hit and then scored a run in Bakersfield's 4-run 9th inning rally , as the Blaze came from behind to top the Ports, 6-3. Travis (.228) had 2 hits on the night for the Blaze. Go, Moose!!.........In Mobile, Jesus Sanchez had a rare off night, and took a loss bu allowing a run on 2 hits and a walk, and retiring just 1 hitter in Huntsville's 6-5 loss to the Bay Bears in the first game of their doubleheader. It was the first blown save in 6 tries for Jesus, who is 3-2, with a nice 1.36 ERA so far for the Stars..........In Kodak, Brian Schlitter's tribulations continue. Brian (5.30) allowed 2 runs on 4 hits and a walk for the Smokies in their 14-7 loss to the Mississippi Braves...........In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Singleton (.295) had 2 doubles and a walk, and scored 2 runs, and Josh Zeid tossed a scoreless inning of relief (his 3rd hold) for the Hooks, as they beat San Antonio, 5-1............In Rancho Cucamonga, Domingo Santana (.275) came off the DL and picked up a hit and 2 RBI (37 for the year) for Lancaster, but the JetHawks dropped a 5-4 decision to the Quakes.

Monday, June 11, 2012

In Reading, Tim Kennelly had 4 hits, including a walk-off home run, his 2nd of the game, to power the R-Phils to a 5-4 win over Harrisburg. Julio Rodriguez was the starter for Reading, and went 6 innings, allowing 4 runs, 3 earned, on 7 hits and 2 walks, and received no decision. Mike Cisco (1.14) tossed 2 scoreless frames of relief.

In Salibury, the BlueClaws rode another strong performance from Ethan Stewart to salvage a 4-2 win in their series finale against the Shorebirds. Stewart went 6 solid innings, allowing just 2 runs on only 3 hits and 4 walks to win his 2nd consecutive start. Maikel Franco had 2 hits, including his 6th home run of the season to give the Claws a quick 2-0 lead, as Lakewood won a game in which they managed just 6 hits. The team returns home Monday for the final home stand of the first half, 8 games in the next 7 days before the All-Star break.

In Syracuse, the IronPigs scored 4 in the 1st inning, and coasted to a 5-2 win over the Chiefs. MikeSpidale (.329) had 3 hits, and scored 2 runs, and Domonic Brown (.269 and climbing) chipped in with a pair of hits.......In Dunedin, the Blue Jays got to Jesse Biddle for 4 runs on 6 hits and 2 walks in just 3 innings en route to an 8-3 beating of the Threshers. Carlos Alonso (.315) had 3 hits for Clearwater, and Jim Murphy, Cody Asche, and Edgar Duran added 2 hits each.

In Fresno, Travis d'Arnaud (.332) had 3 hits, including a double and drove in 2 runs, and Anthony Gose (.287) added 2 hits, scored twice and knocked in a run for Las Vegas, as the 51s got past the Grizzlies, 8-7.........In Iowa City, Anthony Rizzo hit 2 more home runs for the Cubs, leading them to a 14-3 win over Nashville. Jason Jaramillo (.290) had 1 for 3 for the Sounds........In Colorado Springs, Michael Taylor (.339) had a hit, 2 walks, and an RBI to help Sacramento defeat the SkySox, 8-2.........In Columbus, Jason Donald (.321) had a double, a walk, scored a run and drove in another to help the Clippers beat Charlotte, 5-4. Greg Golson had a hit, stole a base (#10), and scored a run for the Knights..........In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar led off the first inning with his 4th home run of the year, and the Hooks went on to an 11-6 win over San Antonio.

We have to start in Cincinnati, where Austin Jackson has returned to the Tiger's line up. This moved Quintin Berry (.290) down to the 2-slot, immediately ahead of Miguel Cabrera, and to right field. Sunday night Berry was on base 3 times, a walk, hit by a pitch, and a single. He also scored a run in the 6th inning on what was a great slide at home plate, avoiding the tag and getting to the dish before catcher Devin Mesoraco could recover. The Tigers scored 4 in the 8th, and overcame the Reds, 7-6. Alfredo Simon did pitch a scoreless inning in the top of the 9th for Cincinnati.

In Baltimore, the Orioles beat the Phillies 5-4 when Matt Wieters doubled home Adam Jones in the bottom of the 10th. Joe Savery took the loss this time, but it was not his fault, as Jones reached base on a Ty Wigginton error. Carlos Ruiz (.347) was 1 for 4 for the Fightin' Phils........In Atlanta, the Blue Jays spotted the Braves 4 runs, before exploding for a 12-4 win. Michael Bourn (.320) had 2 hits and a walk, and scored a run for Atlanta, extending his hitting streak to 10 games..........In St Louis, the Indians beat the Cardinals, 4-1. Lou Marson had his 7-game hitting streak snapped, going 0 for 2 with a walk for the Tribe.

Sunday, June 10, 2012

In Syracuse, the Chiefs defeated Lehigh Valley, 3-2. Mike Spidale (.306) had a double in 4 at bats, and Steve Susdorf (.352) had a pinch hit single in the 9th inning.

In Reading, Tim Kennelly had 3 hits, and Jiwan James had 2, including his 5th home run of the year, as the Reading Phillies won a 7-2 game from the Senators. David Buchanan (3-5) was the starter and the winner, going 5 innings, and giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 2 walks. Lisalberto Bonilla went 3 perfect frames, striking out 3, and Colby Shreve tossed a scoreless 9th for the R-Phils.

In Corpus Christi, Jonathan Villar (.269) had 3 hits and a walk, knocked in a run , scored 2 and stole 4 bases (that's 28 so far) as the Hooks rallied for 2 in the 9th and a 6-5 win over Midland. Villar's 3rd hit started the winning rally. Jonathan Singleton (.295) had a hit, and 2 walks, and drove in his 40th run for the Hooks. Jarred Cosart started the game for the Hooks, went 6 innings, and gave up 5 runs on 7 hits
and 3 walks, striking out 6 for no decision.

Clearwater dropped a 7-1 game at Dunedin, and Lakewood was pounded, 13-1 by Delmarva.

In Colorado Springs, Michael Taylor (.339) had a double and his 4th home run, and drove in 2 runs to help Sacramento to a 10-3 win over the SkySox............In Iowa City, the Cubs and the Sounds split a doubleheader. In the first game, Jason Jaramillo (.286) was 1 for 2 for Nashville, but the Cubs won the game 1-0.............In Albuquerque, Will Savage won his 8th game of the season with 6 solid innings against Memphis. Savage (8-3, 4.57) allowed just 1 run on 8 hits, and 4 walks for the 2-1 victory............In Fresno, the Las Vegas 51s rallied for 4 runs in the 5th inning , enough for a 4-2 win over the Grizzlies. Anthony Gose had a walk and scored a run, and Travis d'Arnaud had an RBI hit during the rally. Kevin Howard, back from AA, had 2 hits and a walk for the 51s.........In Mobile, the Bay Bears swept a doubleheader from Huntsville, 7-3, and 7-6. Darren Byrd allowed a run on a hit, retiring 1 hitter in game 1, and Jesus Sanchez allowed a hit and a walk, but struck out the side in his inning in game 2.

In Baltimore Saturday , a parade of former BlueClaws did the majority of the pitching for the Phillies in their 6-4 loss to the Orioles. Vance Worley made the start and has looked pretty good since coming off the DL. Vance went 6 innings and allowed 3 runs, only 1 earned on 3 hits and a walk, and was betrayed by his defense as the team made 3 errors. Jacob Diekman allowed a run on 2 hits in his inning, Antonio Bastardo struck out 2 of his 3 hitters in his inning, and then Brian Rosenberg made his debut with a 1-2-3 11th inning. Then in the 12th, BJ walked the leadoff man and allowed the game winning walk off home run to Adam Jones for the Orioles win. Rosenberg becomes the 4th former Claw to debut in the majors this year, and #45 overall.

In Minnesota, the Twins pounded the Cubs, 11-3. Adrian Cardenas was 0 for 2 for Chicago.........In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.317) had 3 hits, including a double, drove in a run and scored another, and stole his 16th base of the season as the Braves beat Toronto, 5-2. It was stolen base #250 in Bourn's career!

Saturday, June 9, 2012

The Phillies have called up Brian "BJ" Rosenberg from Lehigh Valley. When he makes an appearance, he will be #45 of the BlueClaws alumni in the majors.

The news is not good for Freddy Galvis. It turns out, there is a fracture in his lower back, he will be fitted with a brace that he will have to wear for about 6 weeks. So what could have been an excellent rookie season has been rudely interrupted.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have granted Randy Ruiz his release, so that he can sign a deal with a Japanese club. Randy was hitting .331, with 14 home runs and 53 RBI for Reno.

In Allentown, the IronPigs prevailed in a 6-5 victory over Gwinnett. Kevin Frandsen had 3 hits for Lehigh Valley, and Steve Susdorf had a hit, a walk, stole a base, and scored a run to help the Pigs win.

In Reading, the Harrisburg Senators shut out the R-Phils, 9-0. Trevor May was the starter and loser, going 5.1 innings, and giving up 4 runs, 3 earned, on 8 hits and 1 walk, striking out 9. Leandro Castro and Jiwan James had 2 hit each for Reading. In case I did not mention it, Tim Kennelly has been returned to Reading from Lehigh Valley..........In Salisbury, the BlueClaws lost their 15th in the last 17 games, this time 5-3 to the Shorebirds. Harold Martinez had 3 hits, including a double, and Kelly Dugan slammed his 6th home run for Lakewood. Ramon Oviedo was the loser, allowing all 5 runs in just 2 innings. Great relief work from both Gabriel Arias (4 IP, 2 hits, 4 Ks) and Mike Nesseth (2 IP, 1 hit, 1 walk, 1 K) kept the Claws in the game.

In Colorado Springs, the SkySox and Sacramento split a pair of games, the Sox winning the opener, 12-4, and the River Cats rebounded for an 11-2 win and the split. Michael Taylor (.337) had 4 hits on the day, including a double, a 2 RBI for the River Cats.......In Columbus, the Clippers took a 9-1 decision from Buffalo. Jason Donald (.321) had a hit and a walk, and scored 2 runs for Columbus.......In Trenton, the Binghamton Mets beat the Thunder, 9-7. Mike Dubee allowed 2 runs on 5 hits in 1.2 innings for Trenton.......In Corpus Christi, the Hooks defeated Midland, 8-5. Jonathan Villar had 2 hits and scored a run, Jonathan Singleton drove in run # 39 and Josh Zeid threw a scoreless inning for the Hooks.

In Baltimore Friday night, the Phillies exploded for a 9-6 win over the Orioles. Carlos Ruiz (.353) had a hit and an RBI and Antonio Bastrardo tossed a scoreless 8th inning, striking out the side, with 1 walk. Bastardo (2.33) earned his 12th hold of the year..........In Cincinnati, the Reds walked off against the Tigers, 6-5 with a run in the 10th. Quintin Berry (.288) was 0 for 4, but was hit by a pitch and scored a run for Detroit.......In Atlanta, Michael Bourn (.310) had 3 hits, 2 of them off of Kyle Drabek, as the Braves edged the Blue Jays, 4-3 in 10 innings. Drabek lasted 5+ innings, and was charged with 3 runs on 6 hits and 4 walks, receiving no decision............In Chicago, the Astros beat Gavin Floyd and the Sox, 8-3. Floyd pitched OK, lasting 6 innings, and giving up 4 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks, striking out 9 and absorbing the loss, slipping to 4-6 on the year............In Phoenix, the Diamondbacks rallied for 3 in the 9th to steal a 9-8 win from the Athletics. Mike Zagurski threw a scoreless frame (1 walk, 2 Ks) for Arizona......Finally, 6 different Seattle pitchers combined to no-hit the Dodgers in a 1-0 Mariners win.

Friday, June 8, 2012

In Allentown, Steve Susdorf (.340 since promotion) had a big, RBI double, and then scored a run in the IronPigs' 5-run rally in the 7th inning that resulted in a 5-2 victory over Gwinnett. Tyson Brummett (2-1) picked up the win, being in the right place at the right time never hurts, despite allowing a run in his inning. Scott Elarton started and threw 6 solid frames, giving up just 1 run on 4 hits and 3 walks. Lehigh Valley is now 34-26 and in the middle of a 4-team race for first place in the division. Could be an interesting summer!!

In St. Lucie, Zack Collier (.389) had 2 hits, including a home run, to power the Threshers to a 3-2 win over the Mets. Drew Hillman (.333) and Edgar Duran (.254) also had 2 hits each for Clearwater. Mario Hollands was great, going 6 strong innings, allowing just 2 runs, 1 earned, on only 3 hits and NO walks. It was the 2nd win for Mario since joining the Threshers. Hector Neris (6th hold) and TylerKnigge (5th save, 0.86 ERA) pitched scoreless relief.

In Reading, it was a debut that Colby Shreve will want to forget ASAP. Colby allowed 5 earned runs in just .2 innings as Altoona blew open a tie game to an easy 7-1 win. Shreve has pitched very well this year, both in Lakewood and with Clearwater, so I am sure he will make the appropriate adjustments. Austin Hyatt started the game and was very good for 6 innings: 1 run, 5 hits, 3 walks, 7 Ks. Lisalberto Bonilla threw a 1-2-3 7th, before the Curve got to Shreve in the 8th. Leandro Castro (.284) had 2 hits for the R-Phils.

In Lakewood, the BlueClaws lost another 4-1 decision to Lexington, and has now lost 14 of the last 16. The good news is Alejandro Villalobos (.293 in 10 games) continues to provide a spark, a double, and an RBI-triple last night. Maikel Franco also had 2 hits, and hit another ball very hard right at an outfielder. The BlueClaws will spend the weekend in Delmarva, before wrapping up the first half with 8 games at home beginning Monday.

In Toledo, Greg Golson belted a bases-clearing double in the top of the 9th inning to break open a close game, and the Charlotte Knights beat the Mud Hens, 6-1. Golson (.286) now has a 7-game hitting streak, going 11 for 33 with 3 doubles, a triple, and 9 RBI in the 7 games!!..........Over in Columbus, the Bisons edged the Clippers, 3-2. Jason Donald (.324) had 2 hits for the Clippers............In Iowa City, the Cubs rallied to beat Nashville, 5-4. Jason Jaramillo (.304 since his promotion) was 1 for 4, and drove in a run for the Sounds...........In Fresno, Travis d'Arnaud (.329) was 3 for 4, and a walk, and scored a run for Las Vegas, as the 51s defeated the Grizzlies, 9-6. Anthony Gose (.290) added an RBI-double to the Las Vegas cause............In Kodak, the Smokies defeated Mississippi, 8-7. Brian Schlitter retired 6 consecutive hitters for Tennessee..........In Corpus Christi, the Hooks doubled up Midland, 6-3. JonathanVillar had 2 walks, 2 stolen bases (24), and scored 2 runs for the Hooks.

The Lancaster Jet Hawks have placed Domingo Santana on the DL. I am currently looking for the nature of the injury.